We welcome walkers on Te Araroa – The Long Pathway to stop over and relax in our hot pools as they pass through the South Canterbury section – you’ve earned it!

The 3000 km pathway from Cape Reinga to Buff was opened on 3 December 2011. In our region it goes from the Rangitata River south to the Ahuriri river. It goes along the Two Thumb Trail to Tekapo then Twizel, past Lake Ohau and on to the Ribbonwood Road near Omarama.

Lake Tekapo

The 42 km from Tekapo to Twizel goes along the hydro canal, across the Pukaki Power Station, along the lakeside to Pines Camp, on a power company access road to Pukaki Flats, through the Bendrose Reserve and into Twizel.

Te Araroa is one of the longest walking routes in the world and has an incredible variety of landscapes and environments. People can do any sections they like along the pathway. The Alps2Ocean Cycleway shares some of the route south of Twizel.

Te Araroa was opened 36 years after the NZ Walkways Commission was established with a major goal to develop a NZ long scenic track. In 1987 the Commission became part of the Department of Conservation, which has funded much of the pathway. In 1994 the Te Araroa Trust was formed, the impetus of well-known long distance hiker/climber Geoff Chapple, and regional Trust Boards were established.

It’s an incredible pathway and we would love to hear your story when you call in and relax with us at Tekapo Springs!

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Experience the ultimate in relaxation & recreation in the heart of the South Island! Enjoy the stunning views from our hot pools or chill out in the Aqua Play Area + cooler pools. Dare to ride the TRIPPO, NZ’s largest inflatable waterslide!